Questions Answered

Your Most Common
Questions
During Pregnancy
Answered
Your Most Common
Questions
During Pregnancy
Answered
ALCOHOL
There is no safe level of alcohol use during pregnancy. When a pregnant woman
drinks alcohol, it quickly reaches the fetus through the placenta. A baby’s liver is
not fully developed and is not able to break down alcohol. Effects on the baby
may include physical, mental, behavioral and learning disabilities that can last a
lifetime.
BLEEDING
Report any bleeding that you experience. Get off your feet and rest. No sex
within 2 weeks of bleeding. If you pass any tissue, place it in a Ziploc bag
and refrigerate until you see Dr. Moore. Contact the office to schedule an
appointment for evaluation.
CAFFEINE
If you consume high doses of caffeine, suddenly stopping may cause headaches.
Tapering off over a period of 2-3 weeks may improve your likelihood of success.
Studies show that high doses of caffeine may increase the frequency of birth defects.
Limit the amount of caffeine or switch to decaffeinated products.
CIGARETTES
If you smoke during pregnancy, your baby is exposed to harmful chemicals such
as tar, nicotine and carbon monoxide. Nicotine causes blood vessels to constrict, so
less oxygen and nutrients reach the fetus. Carbon monoxide decreases the amount
of oxygen the baby receives. The risk of miscarriage, preterm birth, still birth and
the way the placenta attaches to the uterus are increased. Infants born to smokers
tend to be smaller than those born to nonsmokers. They are more likely to have
asthma, colic and childhood obesity. They also have an increased risk of dying from
sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Call the national “quit line” at 1-800-QuitNow for additional assistance.
COLDS, COUGH, FLU, OR SORE THROAT
Don’t use Aspirin or Aspirin-containing products. You may use Tylenol (in limited
amounts), Co-Tylenol (in limited amounts), Afrin Nasal Spray, Robitusum, Sudafed,
Actifed, Throat Lozenges or Benydryl. Drink plenty of fluids. If fever is over 100.1° or
if symptoms persist, contact the office to schedule an appointment for evaluation.
CONSTIPATION
Very common in pregnancy. Eat bulk producing foods. Examples: whole grain
breads and cereals, fresh fruit and vegetables. Iron supplements may aggravate
the situation. If this is a problem, please contact the office for an alternate iron
preparation. Do NOT simply discontinue your iron. You may use Ducolax,
Metamucil, Colace, Glycerin Suppositories or Milk of Magnesia. Please note that
there is a difference between a stool softener and a stool stimulant. Purchase the
correct one for your specific condition.
DENTAL CARE
Good dental health and hygiene are important during pregnancy. A local
anesthetic may be used, but not gas. X-rays may be taken after the first trimester
and only if a lead apron is used to shield your abdomen. General cleanings are fine.
Ampicillan, Keflex, Lortab and Enteric-Coated Erythromycin may be prescribed
by your dentist, if necessary.
DIARRHEA
Clear liquids are recommended for the first 24 hours. Bananas, clear liquid soups,
rice, applesauce, tea or yogurt are easier on the stomach. Gradually increase your
diet. Avoid heavy, spicy & fast foods.
DOUCHING
Not recommended during pregnancy.
DRUG USE
RECREATIONAL DRUG USE
Illegal drugs include heroin, cocaine, methamphetamines, marijuana, and
prescription drugs used for a nonmedical reason. Drug abuse is a widespread
problem in the United States. It is estimated that up to 40% of pregnant women
have used one of these substances during pregnancy. Often, more than one
substance is used.
Different drugs may affect the fetus in different ways. A drug’s effect on the fetus
depends on many things: how much, how often, and when during pregnancy it
is used. The early stage of pregnancy is the time when main body parts of the
fetus form. Using drugs during this time in pregnancy can cause birth defects and
miscarriage. During the remaining weeks of pregnancy, drug use can interfere with
the growth of the fetus and cause preterm birth and fetal death. Drugs used after
the baby is born can be passed to the baby through breast milk. Infants born to
women who used illegal drugs during pregnancy may need specialized care after
birth and have an increased risk of long-term medical and behavioral problems.
Your Most Common
Questions
During Pregnancy
Answered
PRESCRIPTION MEDICATION ABUSE
Prescription medication abuse is a growing problem. It places tremendous stress
on the health of both the mother and baby. Your baby may be born addicted
to these and go through serious withdrawal if suddenly discontinued without
medical supervision.
CHRONIC OPIATE USE AND CONSEQUENCES FOR THE BABY
Chronic pain has long been a problem. Today many young women are receiving
treatment of chronic pain with long term narcotics. While there is no denying that
chronic pain may be real, you must face the question of whether or not you want
to address with treatment that may create a life-long addiction.
If you do become pregnant while taking narcotics, you run the risk that your
newborn may be addicted to these medications and after birth endure a
prolonged and painful with drawl or more dangerously face uncontrolled and
unmonitored stress of intrauterine withdrawal if you stop these medications
without medical supervision.
If you can address the issue of chronic pain and its management, including
alternatives to narcotics, before you become pregnant, this is ideal.
If you are pregnant, it is important to not stop suddenly without medical
supervision, to avoid getting drugs off the street and to be honest with Dr. Moore
about all drugs/medications that you are taking during pregnancy.
EXERCISE
In moderation, it is helpful during pregnancy. No horse back riding, diving, skiing
or motorcycle riding. Walking is good throughout the entire pregnancy.
FISH
Nearly all fish contain trace amounts of methyl mercury. However, long-lived,
larger fish accumulate the highest levels. You can protect your unborn child by
not eating the following fish: Shark, Swordfish, King Mackerel and Tilefish. You can
safely eat 12 oz. of cooked fish each week.
HAIR PERMANENTS / DYE
O.K. to get during pregnancy. You may find they do not take as well.
HEADACHES
It is important for you and Dr. Moore to determine why you are experiencing
headaches. Types of headaches include tension, eye strain, sinus and migraine. You
may take Tylenol (in limited quantities). No Aspirin containing products. If you
are experiencing blurred vision, double vision or dizziness, especially in the third
trimester, contact our office to schedule an appointment for evaluation.
HEARTBURN
Very common. Eat smaller meals. Avoid lying flat. Milk may help. You may use
Maalox, Pepcid, Prilosec OTC, Tums, or Tagamet.
HEMORRHOIDS
More common during pregnancy due to increased pressure from the pregnancy.
Increase fluid intake. Eat fruits, vegetables and fiber containing foods to prevent
constipation. For relief, try hot tub baths, ice pack, Tucks, over-the-counter stool
softeners, Preparation H, or Anusol. If these do not help, please contact the office.
HOME CHEMICALS
Do not use chlorinated hydrocarbon, cleaning fluids, pesticides, photographic
solvents with bromides, degreasers or paint strippers with methyl chloride. Ceramics
may contain excessive lead and arsenic. Please check out the chemical contents of
the materials you are using and for any pregnancy precautions noted on the label.
IMMUNIZATIONS RECOMMENDED
Appropriate vaccination is encouraged even during pregnancy. Flu Vaccine:
Offered to patients between 18-20 weeks gestation.
Tdap Vaccine (Whooping Cough): Offered to patients between 28-30 weeks
gestation. Especially important for anyone in close contact with a baby younger
than 12 months. Both of these vaccines are safe to receive during pregnancy.
INTERCOURSE (sex)
Safe unless bleeding, leaking fluids, cramping or placenta previa.
LABOR
Labor may start with mild, regular contractions that increase in intensity and shorten
in intervals and/or cramps in the lower back or abdomen. Time the contractions
from the start of the first one to the start of the next contraction. If this is your first
baby, generally we advise that you stay home until contractions are 5 minutes apart
for more than 2 hours. If you’ve had a previous baby, wait until contractions are 5
minutes apart for more than 1 hour. If your water breaks, are bleeding, or have had
a previous C-Section, contact our office right away. Eat light. Clear liquids are best.
If special concerns, contact the office or Labor & Delivery.
PRE-TERM LABOR
Preterm labor (before 36 weeks of pregnancy) may feel different than labor.
Please pay special attention to significant low back pain, significant cramping and
significant persistent contractions. Please contact Dr. Moore or Labor & Delivery. If
you have a history of pre-term labor or pre-term delivery, you may be at a higher
risk of developing preterm labor and/or pre-term delivery.
MEDICATIONS: Prescribed & Over the Counter
Medications, Including Herbs & Vitamins
Never take any medication especially during the first 3 months without first
checking with our office. This is important because babies are more susceptible
to developing serious birth defects. After the first 12 weeks of pregnancy, in the
absence of special circumstances, if you are experiencing any of the symptoms listed
in this booklet - you may refer to the approved medication list. All medications
should be authorized by Dr. Moore.
Your Most Common
Questions
During Pregnancy
Answered
MUCOUS PLUG/BLOODY SHOW
In the last weeks of pregnancy, the cervical mucous changes in consistency and
becomes more liquid. Some may pass out of the vagina. The body continues to
produce mucous until delivery. The mucous plug may contain blood (bloody show).
This is a signal that you are in the later stages of pregnancy but not necessarily that
labor is imminent. Inform Dr. Moore of this at your next visit.
NAUSEA AND VOMITING
May be a sign of acid reflux (GERD). Dr. Moore may supplement your treatment
with an acid reducer. Nausea and vomiting is more common during the first 3-4
months of pregnancy. Eat often in small amounts. Crackers, toast and 7-up are
easier on the stomach. Don’t let your stomach get too empty. Eat a bedtime
snack and a snack before you get out of bed in the morning. Avoid spicy foods
(Mexican, Italian), fatty or fried foods and citrus fruits. If you are unable to keep
anything down for more than 24 hours, we will need to see you as it may be a sign
of a more significant condition.
NOSEBLEEDS
Common in pregnancy due to more dilated blood vessels in response to pregnancy.
Place a cold compress over the bridge of the nose or back of the neck. If it doesn’t
respond, contact the office.
NUTRASWEET
Its effects are still unknown. Use in moderation.
PAINTS AND SOLVENTS
You may paint during pregnancy, but only in a well-ventilated area. Do not
use lead-based paints, turpentine, or liquid paint stripping agents that contain
methylene chloride.
PRENATAL VITAMINS AND IRON
They are an important part of nutritional support for you and your baby during
pregnancy. Prenatal Vitamins do not generally contain enough Iron therefore
we recommend additional Iron supplementation. Iron may cause constipation.
If this occurs, do not simply stop taking your Iron. Dr. Moore may prescribe an
alternative that may be easier on your system. If you are unable to swallow
prenatal vitamins and substitute them with Children’s Vitamins, please take 2
per day and also take a Folic Acid supplement. Folic Acid helps reduce the risk of
certain birth defects.
SAUNAS AND HOT TUBS
Not recommended due to increase in core body temperature with subsequent
over-heating of your baby.
SUNBATHING
Use a sunscreen. Do not stay out more than 1 hour. Sunbathing may be a danger
to the baby if it causes an increase in core body temperature. It may also deepen
the “mask of pregnancy”, which is naturally darkened areas on the face.
SWELLING
Is generally not a sign of a significant medical problem and may be greatly
aggravated by sodium, summer heat and prolonged time on your feet. Decrease
salt intake and increase fluids. Getting off your feet frequently throughout the day
is very helpful. Rest on your left side with both feet elevated at least two times per
day. The salt shaker may not be the main source of excess salt in your diet. High
salt foods include: Fast Food, French Fries, Pizza, Potato Chips, Nacho Chips, Salsa,
Deli Meat, Canned Soup and Microwavable Meals. When pregnancy, your body
may not tolerate the same amount of sodium without bothersome fluid retention.
TANNING BEDS
Its effects on the unborn fetus are unknown. If you use a tanning bed, use with
caution and moderation.
TEETH WHITENING PRODUCTS
According to ACOG, there is not any evidence that bleaching your teeth during
pregnancy poses any risks to you or your baby. However, there is not enough data
to tell us for sure whether they are safe or not. Because of this, we recommend
that you wait until after you have given birth to bleach your teeth. We also advise
waiting until after you are done breast feeding.
TRAVEL
Extensive travel is not encouraged during pregnancy after 34 weeks. Long car
rides (more than 4 hours) are discouraged. Do not wear tight clothes and stop
and move about every 2 hours. Use seat belts by placing the lap belt across upper
thighs. Never place the belt across the abdomen. Please inform our office if you
are planning to travel outside the area. Ask for a copy of your prenatal record to
take with you, if you must travel outside our area.
VAGINAL DISCHARGE
Increases during pregnancy. If it itches, burns, has an odor or causes special concern,
contact our office for evaluation.
YEAST INFECTION
If you are certain it is a yeast infection, over the counter Monistat is approved for use
in pregnancy. If symptoms persist, contact the office to schedule an appointment
for evaluation.
During your pregnancy we are available to assist you
with care for your non-obstetric needs.
Answered
During Pregnancy
* Rupture of Membranes (water breaks)
* Any heavy bleeding or bright red spotting
* Having “blackouts” or seeing spots in your eyes
* Marked decrease or lack of fetal movement
* Persistent temperature above 101.0
Your Most Common
Questions
PLEASE NOTIFY OUR OFFICE If YOU HAVE:
Our office number is 765-662-4666
In the event of an emergency, after hours,
you may call 765-660-6000 and the hospital
operator will page Dr. Moore or the
physician on call for you.
We strongly recommend and encourage
you to participate in prenatal classes
offered at Marion General Hospital.
Wm. David Moore, MD, FACOG
Women’s Health Care
1127 N Western Avenue
Marion, IN 46952
765.662.4666
www.drdavidmoore.com